The New England Patriots’ head teaching search is taking a distinct route this offseason.
In contrast to final 12 months’s simple transition to Jerod Mayo, the workforce is casting a wider internet, and one acquainted face is rising because the frontrunner: Mike Vrabel.
The previous Patriots linebacker, who performed a pivotal function in New England’s dynasty from 2001 to 2008, seems to be main the pack because the workforce begins its newest search.
The sentiment is echoed by former Patriots cornerback Jason McCourty.
“I do suppose it’s Vrabel,” McCourty mentioned, by way of Jim Rome. “There’s clearly a connection there together with his taking part in days in New England. Everyone noticed the shot of him when he was nonetheless the [Tennessee] Titans head coach, and went again when he was put into the Patriots Corridor of Fame and he’s sitting within the suite with the Krafts. I believe he’s the highest candidate.”
Who’s atop New England’s wishlist?@JasonMcCourty weighs in on his former workforce’s seek for a brand new head coach. pic.twitter.com/d4FnvM9H8x
— Jim Rome (@jimrome) January 7, 2025
Vrabel’s connection to New England runs deep from his taking part in profession, making him a pure match for the place.
His 2023 look on the Patriots Corridor of Fame ceremony, the place he was noticed alongside the Kraft household, solely intensified hypothesis about his potential return.
Whereas Vrabel leads the dialog, the Patriots reportedly are maintaining their choices open.
In contrast to their earlier teaching transition, which was basically predetermined with Mayo’s appointment, this search might discover a number of candidates.
Names like Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen would possibly nonetheless issue into the equation.
New England’s plans for creating younger quarterback Drake Maye might additionally affect its last resolution.
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